“Once you start, it becomes addictive,” Thomas said of writing fiction.

All of his books are set in the 49th state and follow main character Robert Sable, an Alaska State Trooper. The most recent installment has Sable investigating the death of two university professors who were killed after discovering Aztec tablets in the wilderness.

The tablets have the potential to lead to a hidden treasure and are being sought after by the Mexican government, which puts the lead character in plenty of dangerous situations.

“I like to cause problems for my detective,” Thomas said. “It makes it more interesting.”

Thomas, who completed his first novel in 2002, said he’s always had a propensity for writing fiction. His eighth-grade teacher was so impressed with his story about Tarzan she asked Thomas to read it aloud in front of his classmates — something he wasn’t too thrilled about.

Thomas said he’s always been drawn to the genre.

“Mysteries are more exciting,” he said.

Thomas, who earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, said he uses his science background and real-world situations in his writing.

A 1966 East High graduate, Thomas has lived in Eagle River for more than four decades. He served in the U.S. Army for eight years and has been a Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteer for 36 years.

Retiring in 2006 hasn’t slowed Thomas down.

He’s cranked out six novels in the past two years and has no intention of stopping. His eleventh book is projected to be out in 2014.

“I have 100 plotlines,” he said.

Thomas will be holding a book signing July 20 at Fireside Books in Palmer from noon to 3 p.m. and another at The Book Shelf in Eagle River on July 27 from noon to 3 p.m.

Frozen Treasure, published by Whiskey Creek Press, is available online in paperback and electronic versions.

Contact Mike Nesper at 694-2727 or mike.nesper@alaskastar.com.

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